| Classification: | Diode |
| Cathode Type: | Directly heated |
| Heater Voltage: | 2.5 |
| Heater Current: | 5 A |
| Max Current: | 250 mA |
| Max Voltage: | 5000 |
| Reference: | RCA Transmitting Tube Manual TT-3, 1940 |
The 866 is a mercury vapor half-wave rectifier intended for high-voltage applications. The voltage drop is approximately 15 volts up to 150 Hz. To avoid unwanted shorts the tube must be operated in a vertical position and the filament preheated for at least 30 seconds before applying the plate voltage.[1]
Structurally, it consists of a linear electrode arrangement; a cup shaped anode with top cap and a cylindrical cathode. The socket is a medium 4 pin bayonet UX-4 and the glass envelope is ST-19. The 2.5 volt/ 5 Amp filament is connected to pins 1 and 4.
Under normal operating conditions the tube glows blue and mercury droplets are visible.